Arthur "Mr. Smokey" Downs

Arthur Downs, Sr., of Sioux City, IA, affectionately known as “Mr. Smokey”, passed away on December 3, 2024, at the age of 94 after a long illness. We will miss him beyond measure yet are grateful that he is at peace and free from pain.

Arthur, the eldest son of Cicero and Vessie Todd Downs, was born August 16, 1930, in Pine Bluff, AR.

Arthur married the love of his life, Maxine Mixon, on February 17, 1949, in Pine Bluff, AR, and during their remarkable union of 62 years, they were blessed with ten children. In 1951, he moved his growing family to Sioux City, IA, where he worked for the railroad and Swift Packing Company. Arthur’s longest tenured employment was with Sioux City Engineering Company, from which he proudly retired after more than 40 years of valued service.

Arthur loved life and his family—to the fullest. His hobbies included fishing and playing cards. He was a practical, no-nonsense type of man with a benevolent heart. His kindness and willingness to help friends, neighbors, and others he encountered leaves behind a lasting impact on the lives of many.

Arthur was a member of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

Arthur was predeceased by his beloved wife, Maxine Mixon Downs; parents Cicero and Vessie Todd Downs; brothers, Thearie Sr. and Henry Sr.; sister, Helen Ruth Downs Thomas; granddaughter, Angela Faye Ainsley; and great-great grandson, Aiden Downs.

Those left to honor his memory and carry on his legacy include:

Five sons: Tommy (Omaha, NE); Arthur Jr (Goodyear, AZ); Derrick (Sioux City, IA); Brian (Woodbury, MN); and Brett (Dynelle) Downs (Sioux City, IA).

Five daughters: Brenda (Calvin) Hudson (Xenia, OH); Marcia (Stephen) Knox (Dayton, OH); Vuanita Downs, (Minneapolis, MN); Sandra Myhre (Eagan, MN); and Vanessa Downs (Ellenwood, GA).

Sister, Mary (Raymond) Jones (Colorado Springs, CO); and brother, John (Linda) Downs (Troy, MO).

22 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; and close friends he considered family.